Steelers Replace Najee Harris With Super Bowl Champion Running Back

The Pittsburgh Steelers moved on from running back Najee Harris after the 2024 season, tendering Jaylen Warren but leaving many fans wondering how they would bolster the position. On Tuesday night, they made a key addition to their backfield. While the Steelers aren't adding an MVP caliber running back, they are bringing in a veteran who did just win a Super Bowl.

According to insider Jordan Schultz, the Steelers agreed to a one-year deal with former Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell. Gainwell showed promise in Philadelphia, but played behind Saquon Barkley, the NFL’s best running back in 2024, limiting his opportunities.

Now, he arrives in Pittsburgh with a chance to carve out a more significant role. Gainwell has been productive when given opportunities, showcasing versatility as both a runner and a receiver. With the Steelers emphasizing a strong rushing attack under Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, Gainwell could be a valuable piece alongside Warren. His signing provides much-needed depth and competition to the running back room as Pittsburgh looks to reshape its offense.

Gainwell carried the ball 75 times for the Eagles in 2024, totaling 290 rushing yards and one touchdown while averaging 3.9 yards per carry. He also contributed as a receiver, hauling in 16 catches for 116 yards. While his production wasn't eye-popping, Gainwell proved to be a reliable depth option, stepping up when needed to give Barkley a breather and keep the chains moving. Given the Eagles' significant financial investment in Barkley, they had little need for Gainwell, which likely factored into their decision to let him walk in free agency.

Despite his limited role, Gainwell’s versatility and experience made him a valuable piece of Philadelphia’s backfield. He was trusted in key moments, particularly on third downs, where his ability to pick up blitzes and catch passes out of the backfield provided stability. However, with Barkley dominating the workload and the Eagles prioritizing other positions, Gainwell became expendable.

Steelers' Running Back Plan Is Going To Be Very Interesting To Watch

The Steelers made a bold move by letting Harris walk in free agency, signaling a shift in their backfield strategy. With Warren set to return as the lead back, it will be interesting to see how the backfield shapes up in 2025. This year’s draft is loaded with running back talent, and Pittsburgh will likely look to add a key contributor to complement Warren.

The addition of Gainwell provides valuable depth and a change-of-pace option alongside Warren. While Warren brings explosiveness and toughness, Gainwell’s versatility as a pass-catcher and reliable rotational back should make for a strong one-two punch. For Gainwell, this is a prime opportunity to prove he deserves a larger role in the league, and if he capitalizes on his chances, he could carve out a significant role in Pittsburgh’s evolving offense.

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